Choose Your Willis

Did you know that the Tigers have had only two players in their 100-plus-year history with the last name Willis? If not, we’ll forgive you because, at least so far, the name doesn’t stir fond memories.

In 1984, Carl Willis pitched 16 innings and was 0-2 with a 7.31 ERA. He surrendered 25 hits and 13 runs, all of them earned. This Willis was soon traded to Cincinnati for Bill Scherrer.

In 2008 and ’09, Dontrelle Willis has fared better in only two categories: wins (1) and innings pitched, 57.2. His ERA is 8.27. It’s anyone’s guess at this point if Dontrelle will get an opportunity in Detroit to improve those stats.

Now, in their defense, both pitchers performed well in their careers when they weren’t wearing a Tigers uniform. But how does that help us?